Named for writer Jerome Lawrence, ("Auntie Mame,' "Inherit the Wind") the award honors its recipients' contributions to both the William Inge Theatre Festival and the national professional theater.

Theatre Hall of Famer Elizabeth Wilson's career includes: Broadway debut in Inge's "Picnic" in 1953 (she was also in the film), "Sticks and Bones" (for which she won a Tony), "You Can't Take It With You," "Morning's at Seve" and "A Delicate Balance." Films include"The Graduate,""The Birds," "A Child Is Waiting," "9 to 5," ""The Addams Family" and "Quiz Show." She just completed a role in "Hyde Park on the Hudson," playing FDR's mother. the fiklm stars Bill Murray and Laura Linney.

Her 91st birthday on April 4 will be celebrated (along with Oscar-winning actress Celeste Holm's 95th birthday) at an event at the Historic Lyric Hall, 827 Whalley Ave. in New Haven. Tickets will not be sold at the door. Information: 203-393-0733 and 203-305-3118 or sneakerrct@aol.com